It?s no wonder that the National Association of Catering Executives? annual fundraiser is one of the best in the country. Its lavishly designed and beautifully decorated table tops are an absolute must-see.
This year?s event ? “Uncorked! An Enchanted Evening” ? which was held recently at the Visionary Arts Museum, featured a feast for the eyes, from the scrumptious presentation of the food to the colors and arrangement of the variously themed tables. Simply put, it was a beautiful evening.
Socially Speaking was honored to be a judge of the gorgeous table-top designs. Not an easy task, as every table was imaginative and lovely.
“This is really difficult,” said one of the judges, who actually is a real judge ? the Honorable Catherine Curran-O?Malley, the state?s first lady. Totally by coincidence, Socially Speaking?s table ? with a Kama Sutra theme ? was voted best. All agreed that “what happens at Table 16 stays at Table 16.”
Tablemates included Mimi Cooper; Daniel Raffel, president of A la Carte Distinctive Caterer Affair; Sandra Magsmamen, chairwoman for the American Visionary Arts Museum; Mark Barry; Kim Grimm; Bonnie Fedchock and NACE President Daniel Briones.
Funds raised from this event went to Meals on Wheels, the Foundation of NACE and the Educational Fund for the Baltimore Chapter of NACE.
HATS OFF TO THE MODELLS
The newly opened Valley Mansion in Cockeysville ? another feather in the cap of Martin?s Caterers ? was the location of the recent “Thanks, Art” celebration.
Twelve years ago, Art and Pat Modell were responsible for getting Baltimore back into the NFL, when they moved their Cleveland franchise to Charm City. In addition, Art Modell?s charitable works are certainly in the Super Bowl category. More than 1,000 passionate friends and supporters showed up to say, “Thanks, Art.” Players, both past and present, joined Ravens front-office personnel in the tribute. General manager Ozzie Newsome and head coach Brian Billick were joined by players Rob Burnett, Kyle Richardson and Mike McCrary.
Old Colts Lenny Moore, John Mackey, Tony Linhardt, Tom Matte and Sam Havrilak were spotted among the guests. In typical Modell fashion, the proceeds went to support city educational programs through the Babe Ruth Foundation Inc.
FROM BALTIMORE TO ATHENS
A Greek-themed anniversary party and fundraiser was held recently at Green Mount Estate in Glyndon. Presented by the Baltimore-Piraeus Sister City Committee ? a group dedicated to cultural and economic exchanges between Piraeus, the port of Athens, and Baltimore. “Our goal is $10,000,” committee member Georgia Vavas said.
“The funds will go toward research on Cooley anemia, a potentially fatal blood disorder that affects Mediterranean people,” Gayle Economos said.
Fantastic Greek cuisine by Hazelwood Inn and music by Odyssey put everyone in the mood to bid on the silent-auction items.
ANNE?S PICK OF THE WEEK
» What: The Limelight Gala (“The Divas”) to benefit children with AIDS.
» When: 8 to 9 p.m. Friday
» Where: The Hippo at 1 West Eager St. in Baltimore.
» Tickets: $100 (VIP, $150).
» Info: 410-961-8474.
